That is ture, mc_jc. That said, I can still save a million a month. Of course, a million a month is not what it was when I first arrived (in 2006, a million was just over $1,000 USD, and had a much better AUD exchange rate).

On a recent trip to the States, I noticed that the cost of many things had increased significantly (I noticed this especially with food, as that is where I spent a lot of money). The cost of a lot of things that I buy in Korea has changed as well (generally not an improvement). So, the upshot for me is that what I am making in Korea does not go as far when I take it out of Korea.

That said, many people on this website like to discuss how much they are making, and the myriad ways they are making it. I am one of those who prefers to have my free time, and I am not constantly chasing the highest paycheck. So, no I do not make as much money as others who may have arrived at the same time, or have the same experience-which is relevant to savings rates.

Possible if you budget. I'm hoping to save that much, I make nearly double, but am paying for myself and my husband, but both of us are studying to get degrees, I paid for his flight over here (which was 1300), three weeks of vacation , plus will spend about another 4K just for Xmas.

Then again our idea of fun is staying in and watching movies. We're an old married couple and don't get out much

I never quite understood how people were not able to save money in Korea. I didn't live in the big cities, so maybe things were cheaper where I was, and I don't drink, so saved a ton of money from that. I also mostly cooked at home, though still enjoyed going out to numerous restarurants, perhaps once a week or so. If I had not have had bills back home, I would have comfortably saved $20,000. As it is, I think I saved $17,000. I traveled all over Korea, spent two fabulous weeks in China, two expensive weeks in Japan, had a girlfriend, went to movies when I wanted, paid for a gym membership, and again, sent thousands of dollars back hom to pay bills in the states. I also didn't do any private lessons, and had tons of free time to enjoy myself, the mountains, the beach, the islands, and the motorcycle I purchased while there. I worked a public school, though I was making more than the typical 2 to 2.2 million won.

Hello I have been offered a position in Busan. It is located near Busan Station in the Jung-gu region of Busan. I was just wondering how this area stacks up to the rest of Busan. In particular:
1- how is the night life
2- How many Foreigners.
3- Proximity to shopping amminities
4- How close is it to the beaches?
5- any other important things that could impact my decision.

Trying to get an idea of how much I can save here while still having a bit of a life. Lets assume I will make 2.2mil won. I know that 400 USD will be going home for bills (ie student loans) each month. Would it still be feasible to save 800-1000USD per month? I do not drink very much but I do enjoy socializing and eating out sometimes. I also will def have a gym membership. I would ideally like to travel to China, Thailand, etc. for a week or so each place I go, as well as seeing lots in Korea. Any thoughts? Thank you.